Latest forest fire update for the Northeast region

MNR News Release

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Smoke


The ministry continues to receive calls from the public about the smell of smoke in northeastern Ontario. Smoke continues to drift into the province from large fires burning in northern Quebec. Until such time there is a significant change in wind direction or weather pattern, smoke will continue to drift.



If, however, you see a large column of dark-coloured smoke and/or open flame, please call 310-FIRE (3473) north of the French and Mattawa Rivers. In southern Ontario, call 911.


New Fires


Five new fires were confirmed on July 3. Algonquin Park 3 was 0.1 hectares and has been called out. Sault Ste. Marie 5 is being held at 0.2 hectares. Sudbury 17 was 0.1 hectares and is out.. Timmins 7 is under control at 0.4 hectares and Wawa 12 is not under control at 4.9 hectares in size. There are no issues anticipated with any of these new fires.



So far, on July 4, three fires have been confirmed. Hearst 8 and 9 are both human caused fires that are not yet under control at 1.5 and 0.5 hectares respectively. Cochrane 14, a lightning caused fire, is not yet under control at 2.0 hectares.


Active Fires

There are four lightning fires in the Cochrane district that are currently being observed. The fires pose no risk to people or property.


Fire Hazard

The fire hazard is high throughout most of the region with some areas of moderate hazard. Relative humidity values are dropping and the number of fire arrivals may increase as we near the weekend.

Be FireSmart!

Did you know? About 200,000 hectares of forest are burned each year and forest fires can cost millions of dollars to put out. Often, unattended campfires are the cause.

If you're going camping and plan to have a campfire, please ensure you build a safe campfire. Keep your campfire small, have water nearby and never leave it unattended. Once you are finished, make sure your campfire is completely extinguished.

Under the Forest Fires Prevention Act (FFPA), if you start a wildfire, you could be held liable for the costs of suppressing the fire.

For tips on how to Be FireSmart and ensure your campfire is safe, visit www.ontario.ca/fireprevention.

For more information about the current fire situation, visit www.ontario.ca/forestfire.

Report forest fires north of the French and Mattawa rivers by calling 310-FIRE (3473). In southern regions, forest fires can be reported by calling your local fire department.

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